10 Dog Breeds Gaining Popularity in 2025—and Why Pet Owners Love Them
Every year, certain dog breeds capture the hearts of pet lovers more than ever before, thanks to shifts in lifestyle, viral social media moments, and growing awareness of breed-specific traits. In 2025, several breeds are making headlines for their affectionate personalities, adaptability, intelligence, or Instagram-worthy looks.
If you’re wondering which dog breeds are becoming the go-to choices for modern pet owners, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 dog breeds gaining popularity in 2025—and why families, singles, and seniors alike are falling in love with them.
Let’s dive into the four-legged stars of the year.
1. Cavapoo (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel x Poodle)
Why They’re Popular:
Cavapoos combine the affectionate, calm demeanor of the Cavalier with the low-shedding, intelligent traits of the Poodle. These small, fluffy dogs are ideal for apartments or homes with children and have grown in popularity thanks to their teddy bear looks and family-friendly personality.
Pet Owners Love Them Because:
- Hypoallergenic coat (great for allergy sufferers)
- Easygoing and sociable
- Great companion for both young and older adults
2. Shiba Inu
Why They’re Popular:
The Shiba Inu continues to surge in popularity in 2025, especially among urban dwellers. Their foxlike appearance, confident personality, and clean habits make them appealing.
Pet Owners Love Them Because:
- Independent but loyal
- Minimal grooming required
- Energetic but not overly needy
Fun Fact:
Shibas are also internet sensations thanks to memes and viral videos showcasing their quirky personalities.
3. Belgian Malinois
Why They’re Popular:
Thanks to TV shows, police dog features, and dog sports, the Belgian Malinois has seen a rise in active homes. In 2025, more experienced dog owners are taking on the challenge of training this high-energy breed.
Pet Owners Love Them Because:
- Extremely intelligent and eager to learn
- Loyal and protective
- Excellent for agility and obedience competitions
Caution:
They need regular training, exercise, and stimulation—this breed isn’t for beginners.
4. French Bulldog
Why They’re Popular:
Still one of the top small dog breeds, French Bulldogs are thriving in 2025 due to their charm, compact size, and minimal exercise needs. They’re especially trendy in city apartments.
Pet Owners Love Them Because:
- Low-maintenance grooming
- Big personality in a small body
- Great with kids and other pets
5. Bernedoodle (Bernese Mountain Dog x Poodle)
Why They’re Popular:
The Bernedoodle combines the gentle, affectionate nature of the Bernese with the intelligence and hypoallergenic coat of the Poodle. It’s the perfect large dog for families looking for a calm but fun-loving companion.
Pet Owners Love Them Because:
- Playful yet calm
- Great with children and large households
- Striking looks and soft coat
6. Greyhound
Why They’re Popular:
Once retired racers, Greyhounds are now being adopted as sleek, couch-loving companions. Their gentle nature and quiet demeanor make them perfect pets for quieter homes or seniors.
Pet Owners Love Them Because:
- Surprisingly lazy indoors
- Require only short bursts of exercise
- Gentle and affectionate
Surprise:
Despite their reputation as racers, they’re couch potatoes at heart!
7. Miniature Schnauzer
Why They’re Popular:
In 2025, the Miniature Schnauzer is having a resurgence, thanks to increased demand for intelligent, hypoallergenic small dogs with bold personalities.
Pet Owners Love Them Because:
- Loyal and protective
- Low-shedding and great for allergy sufferers
- Energetic but manageable in small spaces
8. Australian Labradoodle
Why They’re Popular:
Unlike standard Labradoodles, Australian Labradoodles are bred over generations to have more consistent temperaments and coats. They’re especially popular with first-time dog owners in 2025.
Pet Owners Love Them Because:
- Excellent for therapy or emotional support
- Social and easy to train
- Minimal shedding and allergy-friendly
9. Border Collie
Why They’re Popular:
With remote and hybrid work trends still going strong in 2025, many active pet owners now have the time and energy to raise a highly intelligent breed like the Border Collie.
Pet Owners Love Them Because:
- One of the smartest dog breeds
- Athletic and agile
- Loyal and quick to learn commands
Note:
Best suited for active households or homes with access to outdoor space.
10. Havanese
Why They’re Popular:
The Havanese is beloved in 2025 for being cheerful, compact, and incredibly adaptable. Their silky coat and happy-go-lucky nature make them ideal for families, retirees, or even apartment dwellers.
Pet Owners Love Them Because:
- Easygoing temperament
- Happy around other dogs and people
- Great lap dogs without being clingy
What’s Driving These Trends?
A few key trends are influencing breed popularity in 2025:
1. Compact, Adaptable Companions
Smaller dogs that adapt well to city living—like the Cavapoo and French Bulldog—remain highly desirable, especially for millennials and retirees.
2. Allergy-Friendly Options
Hypoallergenic and low-shedding dogs like the Miniature Schnauzer, Bernedoodle, and Australian Labradoodle appeal to allergy-conscious households.
3. Intelligent Working Breeds
Breeds like the Belgian Malinois and Border Collie are gaining favor with experienced dog owners who enjoy training and stimulation-based activities.
4. Emotional Support and Therapy Trends
Calm, gentle breeds such as Greyhounds and Havanese are being adopted not only as pets but as emotional support animals.
FAQs: Popular Dog Breeds in 2025
Q: What is the most popular dog breed in 2025?
A: The Cavapoo and French Bulldog remain two of the top contenders in urban environments, while Bernedoodles are popular in larger households.
Q: Which breed is best for apartment living?
A: French Bulldogs, Havanese, and Miniature Schnauzers are compact, quiet, and low-exercise breeds ideal for small living spaces.
Q: Are any of these breeds good for first-time dog owners?
A: Yes! Cavapoos, Australian Labradoodles, and Havanese are known for being friendly, trainable, and less demanding.
Q: What’s the trendiest large dog breed right now?
A: Bernedoodles are especially popular for families who want a gentle, affectionate large dog with lower shedding.
Q: Which breeds are best for active lifestyles?
A: Border Collies and Belgian Malinois are perfect for highly active individuals or families that love outdoor activities and mental challenges.
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